In September, Ben celebrated three years living in a group home in Charlotte, North Carolina, with five other men. Ben lives 20 minutes from our house, and we see him several times a week for doctor's appointments, to drop off supplies, for group home events and sometimes because I just miss him. Ben occassionally sleeps over, and he often spends a weekend day hanging out on his favorite couch, watching videos at our house. This Easterseals PORT Health home is Ben's second placement. The first placement through another agency didn't work out, and he left after six months . We were wary of trying a new place, but it's worked out well. My husband, Ryan, and I have developed a partnership with ESPH. Over time, we've built mutual respect and trust with the residents and staff. Here's what's worked for us: 1. Get involved with the group home. Ben lives with five other men in a six-bedroom house in Charlotte. On move-in day, Steven, one of the residents, made ...
These stories describe our journey with Ben, our oldest son. Ben is a sweet and energetic redhead, born with POLR2A, a rare genetic change. My husband, Ryan, and I try to keep up with Ben and his two younger brothers. I intend to shed insight into raising a child with disabilities and pass on the wisdom we’ve earned over the past two decades.
These are sweet!! Love the ornaments!! I adore it when my children make ornaments for the tree.
ReplyDeleteThose are so cute! My kids are too young to make stuff yet, but I did get a cute ornament from Lauren's teacher for Christmas.
ReplyDeleteSuch a sweet smile! And yes, I love those special ornaments from the kids.
ReplyDeletePhoto Christmas ornaments are my absolute favorites too -- that and the hand/footprint ones!
ReplyDeleteThese are super cute! Amazing how fast they grow and how quickly time flies, huh?
~Michelle @ 5MFSN